AU5355500A - A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids - Google Patents

A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids Download PDF

Info

Publication number
AU5355500A
AU5355500A AU53555/00A AU5355500A AU5355500A AU 5355500 A AU5355500 A AU 5355500A AU 53555/00 A AU53555/00 A AU 53555/00A AU 5355500 A AU5355500 A AU 5355500A AU 5355500 A AU5355500 A AU 5355500A
Authority
AU
Australia
Prior art keywords
liquid
capillary medium
container
capillary
air flow
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
AU53555/00A
Other versions
AU748785B2 (en
Inventor
Gerald Leslie Hart
Guy Edward Naish
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Givaudan SA
Original Assignee
Givaudan SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Givaudan SA filed Critical Givaudan SA
Publication of AU5355500A publication Critical patent/AU5355500A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of AU748785B2 publication Critical patent/AU748785B2/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D99/00—Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L9/00—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L9/015—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone
    • A61L9/04—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone using substances evaporated in the air without heating
    • A61L9/12—Apparatus, e.g. holders, therefor
    • A61L9/127—Apparatus, e.g. holders, therefor comprising a wick
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01M—CATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS; APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS
    • A01M1/00—Stationary means for catching or killing insects
    • A01M1/20—Poisoning, narcotising, or burning insects
    • A01M1/2022—Poisoning or narcotising insects by vaporising an insecticide
    • A01M1/2027—Poisoning or narcotising insects by vaporising an insecticide without heating
    • A01M1/2033—Poisoning or narcotising insects by vaporising an insecticide without heating using a fan
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01M—CATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS; APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS
    • A01M1/00—Stationary means for catching or killing insects
    • A01M1/20—Poisoning, narcotising, or burning insects
    • A01M1/2022—Poisoning or narcotising insects by vaporising an insecticide
    • A01M1/2027—Poisoning or narcotising insects by vaporising an insecticide without heating
    • A01M1/2044—Holders or dispensers for liquid insecticide, e.g. using wicks

Abstract

The device (1) which allows the controllable transfer of a liquid (21), such as a perfume, a pharmaceutical agent, a masking agent, an insecticide or an organoleptic substance, through an outlet opening (22) of a container (22) comprises a holder (10) with a fitting (11) being designed to embrace a capillary medium (5) and to fit into the opening (22) in such a way that liquid is only transferable through the opening (22) by the capillary medium (3). The holder (10), adjacent to the fitting (11), further comprises a sleeve (13) which further embraces the capillary medium (3) at least at a length which is chosen in such a way that, in a first vertical position of the sleeve (13) liquid (21) has access and in a second, inverse, vertical position of the sleeve (13) liquid (21) has no access to the capillary medium (3). The apparatus comprises at least one device (1) installed on a rotor (9) . <IMAGE>

Description

S&F Ref: 519992
AUSTRALIA
PATENTS ACT 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION FOR A STANDARD PATENT
ORIGINAL
Name and Address of Applicant: Actual Inventor(s): Address for Service: Invention Title: Givaudan SA Chemin de la Parfumerie CH-1214Vernier Switzerland Gerald Leslie Hart, Guy Edward Naish Spruson Ferguson St Martins Tower 31 Market Street Sydney NSW 2000 A Device for the Controllable Transfer of a Liquid and an Apparatus for Dispensing Transferred Liquids The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me/us:- Documents received on: S AU8 2000 5845c 1 A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids The present invention relates to a device for the controllable transfer of a liquid according to claims 1 and 6 and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids with at least one of said devices according to claim 16.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION :In order to transfer liquids it is known to use capillary .action which is dependent on the cohesion forces within 10 the liquid and the adhesion forces of the liquid to a capillary medium comprising small channels for the transfer of the liquid. Such a capillary medium, being *introduced through an opening into a container, can therefore transfer a liquid out of said container by means of capillary action. The transferred liquid may be used to distribute chemical substances to the ambient air in order to mask or generate an odour, to evoke a medical or 5 organoleptic effect or to affect insects.
e.
o The US 5 114 625 discloses a fragrance dispenser with a fluid reservoir and a wick with a fluid receiving end disposed in the reservoir for drawing liquid therefrom into the wick and an portion of the wick exposed to an air flow provided by a fan.
In order to stop the transfer of liquid the capillary medium must be removed or covered. To control the amount of fluid evaporated from the wick, the device disclosed in US 5 114 625 comprises a wick cover that is movable A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 2 between a substantially closed position covering the exposed portion of the wick and an open position where the wick is exposed to the flow of air.
Removing or covering the capillary medium is inconvenient and may cause further distribution of remainders of the liquid on the cover or the removed capillary medium. The use of two or more liquids increases the inconvenience accordingly.
The present invention is therefore based on the object of specifying a device, which allows an easily controllable transfer of a liquid through a capillary medium and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids with at least one of said devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION *15 The above and other objects of the present invention are achieved by a device as specified in claim 1 and 6 and an apparatus as specified in claim 16 The inventive device allows the controllable transfer of a liquid, such as a perfume, a pharmaceutical agent, a masking agent, an insecticide or an organoleptic substance, by a first capillary medium such as a scrib-rod or wick from a container to the outlet opening, preferably further to a second capillary medium such as a gauze. The first capillary medium is designed such that it allows entering of liquid at its bottom portion and is impermeable for liquid through surfaces other than those of the bottom portion, e.g. by comprising a layer of impermeable material around its lateral surfaces, e.g. a A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 3 coating, or by being a capillary or a bundle of capillaries. Preferably, the first capillary comprises a wick or a scrib-rod made of a porous or woven or non-woven natural or synthetic material, as this is cheap to manufacture. Further, the position of the bottom portion of the first capillary medium is fixed relative to the container, preferably by being rigid itself or stabilised in shape by stabilising means, e.g. a sleeve or a rigid coating. Therefore, its position relative to the container is maintained when the device is turned. By liquid entering only at the bottom portion of the capillary medium and the medium maintaining its location with respect to the container it is achieved that the transfer or transport of liquid can be controlled, in general can be switched on and off, by altering the spatial position of the device, e.g. turning it upside-down.
In another embodiment of the invention the first capillary medium is inserted into a holder comprising a fitting being designed to embrace the capillary medium and to fit into an opening of the container. Said holder further comprises a preferably non-porous sleeve which further embraces the capillary medium at least at a length which is chosen in such a way, that, in a first vertical position of the sleeve, liquid has access and in a second, inverse, vertical position of the sleeve the liquid has no access to the capillary medium.
The inventive device is therefore easily controllable by turning it from a first to a second position, e.g. turning it upside-down.
A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 4 In a preferred embodiment of the device the end of the sleeve extends to a side-wall of the container in such a way that in a third, horizontal position of the container access of the liquid to the capillary medium is prevented as well. Preferably this embodiment is used for an apparatus comprising two or more inventive devices which in positions one and two are activated alternatively and which are both deactivated in the third position. A further advantage of this embodiment is, that two or more liquids can be diffused separately.
In a further embodiment the first capillary medium is connected to a second capillary medium such as a gauze or an extended portion of the first capillary medium, from which the transferred liquid is diffused preferably under the support of an the air flow generated by fan.
o **In a further embodiment the device comprises an annular container with one or more, preferably three, compartments respective reservoirs filled with different liquids which through a first capillary medium are guided to a second 20 capillary medium which is embraced by the container. The e• 0 annular container may be moulded in one piece which can be produced at low cost. The annular container may however also consist of segments which can be separated for example for the refill of the liquids and combined afterwards. Using an annular container also facilitates handling of the device and integration into an apparatus which automatically turns the device into positions in which transfer of selected liquids is initiated or terminated. For this purpose the outer surface of the A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 device, which is hold in a bearing, may be in contact with a drive wheel.
In order to reduce costs for the assembly of the devices the holders for the first capillary medium can be integrated into the containers of the inventive devices.
The first and the second capillary medium may be made in one piece. This would be especially advantageous in cases where the container can be disassembled and reassembled, embracing the second capillary medium in the centre.
The inventive apparatus, which allows dispensing of transferred liquids, comprises at least one inventive :..*:device as described above being rotatably mounted on an axis of a stator between at least a first vertical and a second position, where no liquid enters the first capillary medium.
In a principal embodiment the apparatus comprises two inventive devices arranged towards each other along the same axis on a rotor with the second capillary medium oriented towards the centre of the rotor in such a way o. 20 that in a first position of the rotor only one of the devices and in the second position the other one of the devices transfers the liquid. To increase the diversity of dispensed liquids three devices are located in the same plane perpendicular to the rotational (first) axis on an imaginary circle with 1200 spacing between two devices.
Further, an apparatus with four to six devices located equally distributed on an imaginary sphere is advantageous as it allows to switch on and off the transfer of a single liquid out of four to six different liquids. Generally, A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 6 the shape of the device and the maximum amount of liquid contained are such that the permeable bottom part of the first capillary medium is in contact with the liquid when the device is in the ,on-position" (first position), and not in contact with the liquid when moving the device from the ,,on-position" to any of the ,,off-positions" (second position), e.g. by turning the rotor by 900 or 1200 with respect to the horizontal.
The apparatus is preferably equipped with a control unit comprising a sensor for detecting the position of the rotor. Said control unit being capable to actuate the air e flow generator and/or to control the air flow depending on the position of the rotor.
In the second position the diffusion of the liquid is therefore immediately stopped since liquid is no longer transferred by the first capillary medium and no longer diffused at the outlet opening or from the second S. capillary medium.
o In a further embodiment the apparatus can be fully 20 automated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Some of the objects and advantages of the present invention have been stated, others will appear when the following description is considered together with the accompanying drawings, in which: A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03 .08.00 -7 Fig. 1 shows a holder 10 and a first capillary medium 3, separated from each other; Fig. 2 shows the holder 10 with the installed capillary medium 3; Fig. 3 shows a container 20 with an opening 22 suitable for inserting the holder Fig. 4 shows the container 20 with the holder 10 and the capillary medium 3 installed; Fig. 5 shows the container 20 of Fig. 4 turned upside 10 down; Fig. 6 shows a modified container 201 comprising two reservoirs 204a, 204b; Fig. 7 shows the first capillary medium 3 connected to a second capillary medium 15 Fig. 8 shows the arrangement of Fig. 7 installed in a container 20 of a first and a second inventive device Ix respective ly; Fig. 9 shows the two inventive devices Ix, ly of Fig. 8 in horizontal alignment and a third, vertically aligned inventive device iz transferring liquid through the capillary media 3 and Fig. 10 shows an inventive apparatus with the devices Ix, ly of Fig. 8 installed, Fig. 11 shows an inventive device 101 with an annular container 2000 comprising one reservoir; A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 8 Fig. 12 shows an- inventive device 102 with an annular container 2001 comprising three reservoirs; Fig. 13 shows the inventive device 102 of Fig. 12 cut along line A-A and Fig. 14 shows a segment 102a' of an annular container.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Fig. 1 shows a first capillary medium 3 and a holder (in a sectional view) comprising a fitting 11 with a flange 12; said fitting 11 being connected to a sleeve 13.
:'.".Fitting 11 and sleeve 13 build a tube with a channel into which the capillary medium 3 can be inserted.
Fig. 2 shows the holder 10 with the installed capillary medium 3. The length of the capillary medium 3 is chosen in such a way that it is longer than fitting 11 and sleeve ~13 combined. When installed, one end 31 of the capillary medium 3 will extend out of the sleeve 13 respective the end 14 of the sleeve 13 and the other end 32 will extend out of the fitting 11, which tightly seals the opening 22 after the installation.
Fig. 3 shows in a sectional view a container 20 with an opening 22 and a corresponding fitting 24 which is suitable to receive the fitting 11 of the holder 10 in such a way that the sleeve 13 is inserted into the container 20 and the flange 12 rests on the fitting 24 of the container 20 which is filled with a liquid 21 such as a perfume, a pharmaceutical agent, a masking agent, an A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 9 insecticide or an organoleptic substance. Further shown is a cover 25 with an opening 26 through which the capillary medium 3 can be guided. The cover 25 can be screwed onto the fitting 24 of the container Fig. 4 shows the container 20 with the holder 10 and the capillary medium 3 installed. Due to the tight sitting of the fitting 11 in the opening 22 and the tight sitting of the capillary medium 3 in the channel 15 of the holder the liquid 21 is only transferable through the opening 22 through the capillary medium 3 by capillary action. The liquid 21 can enter only at the end 31 of the capillary medium 3 respective at the end 14 of the sleeve 13 since sleeve 13 shields the remaining part of the capillary medium 3, introduced into the container 20, against the liquid 21. The end 14 of the sleeve 13 of the installed holder 10 preferably extends to a region close to the bottom 23 of the container Therefore, when turning the container 20 upside down, as shown in Fig. 5, the liquid 21 has no access to the capillary medium 3 which is shielded by the sleeve 13.
Only in case that the container 20 were filled more than liquid could reach the capillary medium 3. However the capillary medium 3 and the sleeve 13 could also be extended to the bottom 23 of the container 20, comprising in there narrow channels for the liquid 21 to pass through to the capillary medium 3.
Fig. 6 shows a modified container 201 comprising two reservoirs 204a respective 204b at the side-wall 202, which receive the liquid 21 whenever the container 201 is turned into horizontal alignment. A clockwise rotation of A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 the container 201 will cause the liquid 21 to enter reservoir 204b. A counter-clockwise rotation will cause the liquid 21 to enter reservoir 204a. The liquid 21 will therefore not be in contact with the capillary medium 3 in both horizontal orientations of the container 21. The reservoirs 204a, 204b may also be part of a cylindrical extension of the side-wall 202. The modified containers 201 are recommended for the use in arrangements comprising three or more inventive devices Ix, ly, iz. In the arrangement shown in Fig. 9 modified containers 201 could therefore advantageously be installed.
.Fig. 7 shows the first capillary medium 3 connected to a "second capillary medium 5 such as a gauze or an extended portion of the first capillary medium 3 which preferably consists of a porous synthetic material from which the transferred liquid 21 is exposed to the air or to the air S.flow 28 generated by an air flow generator 4 (see Fig.
From the first or second capillary medium 3; 5 the diffused liquid 27 (see Fig. 8, 9 or 10) is forwarded to the environment.
Fig. 8 shows the arrangement of Fig. 7 installed in a container 20 of a first and a second inventive device ix respective ly. The first device ix is oriented as the device 1 shown in Fig. 4. As explained above in this orientation liquid 21 is transferred by the capillary medium 3. The second device ly is oriented as the device 1 shown in Fig. 5 preventing the transfer of liquid 21.
Fig. 9 shows the two inventive devices Ix, ly of Fig. 8 in horizontal alignment along an axis v and a third device iz in vertical alignment along an axis u. The third device iz A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 11 is transferring liquid 21 through the capillary media 3 and 5 while no liquid is transferred by the horizontally aligned devices Ix, ly, which contain only a small amount of liquid 21. Turning the arrangement around axis v by 900, will cause transfer of liquid 21 to stop in device Iz as well. However, turning the arrangement around an axis w, which is perpendicular to the axis u and v, to the left or to the right by 900 will start transfer of liquid 21 in one of the devices ix respective ly while transfer of liquid 21 in the device iz will cease.
Adding two inventive devices 1 aligned along axis w will extend the arrangement to five devices 1 which can be turned around axis v or w into corresponding positions S.where liquid 21 is transferred in the corresponding devices 1.
*ooe In order to allow the use of larger volumes of liquid 21 *e the devices ix, ly and iz can be replaced by devices .*.comprising a modified container 201 as shown in Fig. 6.
Of course the vertical and horizontal alignment need not 20 be exact and can vary in a broad angle depending on the .:percentage of liquid 21 in the containers 20; 201 and the form (bent, straight) and length of the sleeve 13.
It is also possible to use a single inventive device 1 preferably in a housing which can be put on a surface in at least two positions in such away that in both positions (inverse and not inverse) the device 1 is at least approximately vertically aligned.
AI3142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 12 Fig. 10 shows an inventive apparatus for dispensing liquids 21 comprising a stator 7 which, on a axis 71, carries a rotor 9 with two axially aligned inventive devices ix, ly. Possible is also the installation of only one device Ix in the apparatus. In the present position only the lower device ly is transferring liquid 21 through the first and second capillary medium 3; 5 from where it is forwarded to the environment by a flow of air 28 being generated by a fan 4, which is preferably located in the stator 7. The air flow 28 is preferably guided in channels 93 in the rotor 9 and in the stator 7 in order to maximise the efficiency. The second capillary media 5 of the first and the second device ix, ly may be framed and isolated from each other by a frame 91 comprising openings 92 for 15 the air flow 28. The rotor 9 can now be turned between at least a first position, e.g. as shown in Fig. 10 and a ooe position in which the rotor 9 is turned by 1800. In the o*o.
first position, liquid 21 from the first device ly is transferred and diffused, while no liquid 21 is 20 transferred in the second device ix. In the second position liquid 21 is transferred in the second device Ix while no liquid 21 is transferred in the first device ly.
The liquid 21 to be diffused can therefore easily be selected by turning the rotor 9. In case that no liquid 21 should be diffused the devices ix and ly are brought into a third position where they are horizontally aligned. In case that this third position is used in the apparatus, then preferably the containers 201 shown in Fig. 6 are installed.
The positions of the rotor 9 are preferably detected by a sensor 62 which is connected to a control unit 6 which is A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 13 controlling the fan 4 and/or a motor 63 which in a preferred embodiment is used to turn the rotor between positions. In case that the rotor 9 reaches the third position driven by the motor 63 or manually the fan 4 is switched off by the control unit 6 since no liquid is transferred in this position. In a further embodiment, depending on the input from a sensor 65, which measures temperature and/or humidity, the control unit 6 adjusts the air flow generated by the fan 4 or actuates fan 4 and rotor 9 in a suitable way.
The electrical devices in the apparatus are connected to a power supply 64. In order to control the apparatus prefeoo "rably one or more control buttons 61 (mains switch etc.) S o are installed. The apparatus may also be programmable and equipped with a timer. The apparatus may rest on a support 73 or may be installed on the wall by corresponding means 5.55 o.eo 72.
o. Fig. 11 shows an inventive device 101 with an annular con-
S..
tainer 2000 comprising one reservoir which is filled with a liquid 21. The annular container 2000, which may also S"have a toroidal form, embraces a cylindrical capillary medium 5 such as a gauze or an extended portion of a first capillary medium which is embraced by a holder 10. As described above the holder 10 is inserted into the container 2000 in such a way that in the position shown in Fig. 11 liquid 21 is transferred through the first capillary medium. With a turn of the device 101 the holder is lifted out of the liquid 21 thus preventing the transfer of the liquid 21.
A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 14 Fig. 12 shows an inventive device 102 with an annular container 2001 with three reservoirs 102a, 102b and 102c, each being filled with a liquid 21a, 21b, 21c and being equipped with a holder 10a, 10b, 10c for a first capillary medium. In the position shown in Fig. 12 the liquid 21a is transferred through the first capillary medium in the holder 10a to the second capillary medium 5. Transfer and distribution of the other liquids 21b or 21c can be initiated by turning the device 102 by approximately 1200 10 to the left or to the right.
oooo Fig. 13 shows the inventive device 102 of Fig. 12 cut along line A-A. It is shown that an air flow generator 4 is installed behind the second capillary medium 5 in such a way that the air flow generated is driven through the second capillary medium 5 thus- distributing the transferred liquid 21a. The second capillary medium 5 can be formed of one piece, allowing the liquids to get mixed, or three pieces separated from each other, preventing the liquids to get mixed. The number of reservoirs 102 can be 20 two, three or more.
The annular container 2001 of the inventive device 102 shown in Fig. 12 can be moulded in one piece. However the container 2001 can also be composed of three discrete segments 102a' as shown in Fig. 14. The shown segment 102a' preferably comprises means 102x, 102y for interconnecting all segments.
The holder 10' for the first capillary medium 3 is incorporated into the segment 102a'. Handling of this device is therefore facilitated, since liquid 21a can be refilled without removing the holder. Incorporation of the A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 I 15 holder 10 can advantageously also be done in the containers 20, 201 shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. A13142EP-2/RZ/Me/03 .08.00

Claims (23)

1. A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid (21) stored in a container (20; 201) through an outlet opening (22) of said container (20; 201) with a first capillary medium which bottom portion extends into a region close to the bottom (23) of the container 201), wherein liquid is transferable through the opening (22) due to capillary action, characterised in that the surface of the first capillary medium is 10 permeable for liquid (21) at its bottom portion and is impermeable for liquid (21) otherwise, wherein the position of the bottom portion (10) of the first capillary medium relative to the container 201) is fixed.
2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the first capillary medium includes a wick, the wick preferably consisting of woven or non-woven fabric and/or a porous material, the major part of the lateral surfaces of the wick being surrounded by a 20 layer (13 sleeve) impermeable to the liquid.
3. Device according to claim 2, wherein the layer (13) additionally serves to stabilise the position of the first capillary medium relative to the container 201), preferably by being rigid.
4. Device according to claim 1, wherein the first capillary medium comprises a number of capillaries. A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 17 Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid transferred by the first capillary medium is exposed to air or to an air flow generated by an air flow generator for evaporation.
6. A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid (21) stored in a container (20; 201) through an outlet opening (22) of said container (20; 201) with a holder for a capillary medium which extends into a region close to the bottom (23) of the container 10 201), said holder (10) comprising a fitting (11) being designed to embrace the capillary medium and to So fit into the opening (22) in such a way that liquid is only transferable through the opening (22) by the capillary medium characterised in that the holder (10) adjacent to the fitting further comprises a sleeve (13) which tightly embraces the capillary medium up to or close to its end (31) so that the device can be turned between at least a first position in which liquid (21) is transferred while 20 contacting the end (31) of the capillary medium (3) and at least a second position in which the end (14) of the sleeve (13) extends out of the liquid (21) thereby preventing contact of the liquid (21) to the capillary medium (3)
7. Device according to claim 1, wherein the capillary medium which is extending out of the fitting is connected to a second capillary medium such as a gauze or an extended portion of the first capillary medium from which the transferred A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 18 liquid (21) is exposed to the air or to the air flow generated by an air flow generator and evaporated.
8. Device according to one of the preceding claims wherein the container (201) is equipped with at least one reservoir (204a, 204b) which is suitable to receive the liquid (21) when the container (201) is turned into a third, approximately horizontal position.
9. Device according to one of the preceding claims wherein the opening (22) can be closed by a cover comprising an opening (26) suitable for inserting the capillary medium Device according to one of the claims 6 to 9 .wherein the fitting (11) comprises a flange (12) which extends over the edges of the opening (22). S. 11. Device according to one of the preceding claims wherein the liquid (21) is a perfume, a pharmaceutical agent, a masking agent, an insecticide or an organoleptic substance.
12. Device according to one of the claims 6 to 11, wherein the capillary medium is a scrib-rod or a wick, the scrib-rod or wick preferably consisting of woven or non-woven fabric and/or a porous material.
13. Device (101; 102) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an annular container (2000; 2001) with at least one reservoir (102a; 102b; 102c) being equipped with a holder (10; 10a; 10b; 10c) for the transfer of a liquid (21; 21a; 21b; 21c) through a A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 19 first capillary medium to a second capillary medium which is embraced by the annular container (2000; 2001).
14. Device (102) according to claim 13 wherein the container (2001), which comprises two or more reservoirs (102a; 102b; 102c), is moulded in one piece or consists of interconnectable segments (102a') comprising a reservoir (102a).
15. Device 101; 102) according to one of the claims 6 10 to 14, wherein the holder is incorporated in the container (20; 201, 2000, 2001) respective the segment (102a')
16. Apparatus for dispensing at least one liquid (21), comprising at least one device (Ix, ly, 1z; 101; 102) according to one of the preceding claims for the controllable transfer of a liquid (21) through an outlet opening (22) of a container (20; 201; 2000; 2001) to the air, said device (Ix, ly, Iz; 101; 102) being rotatably mounted between at least a first position in which liquid (21) is transferred and a second position in which transfer of liquid (21) is prevented.
17. Apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the liquid (21) is transferred to the air via a second capillary medium connected to the first capillary medium
18. Apparatus according to claim 16 or 17 with a rotor which can be turned around at least a first axis A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 20 9 and with at least two devices (Ix, ly) installed in a plane perpendicular to the first axis with 900, 1200 or 1800 spacing of adjacent devices, in a first position of the rotor liquid (21) is transferred only in a first device (Ix) and that in a second position of the rotor liquid (21) is only transferred in a second device (ly).
19. Apparatus according to claim 16, 17 or 18 with the rotor being rotatable around the first axis (w) and a second axis and with at least four devices being installed on the rotor at approximately equal distances from each other on an imaginary sphere. Apparatus according to one of the claims 16 to 19 with the outlet opening (22) and/or the second capillary medium of the installed devices Ix, ly, 1z) being oriented towards the first axis (w) and/or the crossing point of the first and the second axis w).
21. Apparatus according to one of the claims 16 to 20 with a device (101) comprising an annular container (2000; 2001) with at least one reservoir (102a; 102b; 102c) being equipped with a holder (10; 10a; 10b; 10c) for the transfer of a liquid (21; 21a; 21b; 21c) through a first capillary medium to a second capillary medium which is embraced by the annular container (2000; 2001).
22. Apparatus according to one of the claims 16 to 21, comprising an air flow generator such as a fan A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00 21 which is generating an air flow towards at least the outlet opening (22) or second capillary medium of the device Ix, ly, iz) whose first capillary medium is transferring liquid (21).
23. Apparatus according to claim 22, further comprising a channel (93) to guide the air flow from the air flow generator towards said outlet opening (22) or second capillary mediumn
24. Apparatus according to one of the claims 16 to 23, 10 with a control unit comprising a switch (61) for actuating the air flow generator and/or comprising a sensor (62) for detecting the position of the rotor said control unit being capable to actuate the air flow generator and/or to control the air flow depending on the position of the rotor
25. Apparatus according to claim 24, said control unit (6) being programmable and capable to control a motor (8) which is used to turn the rotor between the operating positions.
26. Apparatus according to one of the claims 12-19 comprising a stator comprising the air flow generator and a bearing for the axis (71) of the rotor which carries at least one, preferably up to five devices (Ix, ly, A13142EP-2/Rz/Me/03.08.00
27. A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid stored in a container through an outlet opening of said container with a first capillary median which bottom portion cktcnds into a region close to the bottom of the container wherein liquid is transferable through the opening due to capillary action, which device is substantially s hearing described with reference to the drawings. 2S. An apparatus for dispensing at least one liquid, which apparatus is as defined in claim 16 and is substantially as hearing described with reference to the drawings. Dated 21 August, 2000 Givaudan SA Patent Attorneys for the Applicant/Nominated Person SPRUSON FERGUSON S I R:\Il IM 13492 1.doc:SaF
AU53555/00A 1999-09-29 2000-08-22 A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids Ceased AU748785B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CHEP99810876 1999-09-29
EP99810876A EP1088562A1 (en) 1999-09-29 1999-09-29 A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
AU5355500A true AU5355500A (en) 2001-04-05
AU748785B2 AU748785B2 (en) 2002-06-13

Family

ID=8243053

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
AU66990/00A Abandoned AU6699000A (en) 1999-09-29 2000-08-02 Unit for the transfer and distribution of a liquid
AU53555/00A Ceased AU748785B2 (en) 1999-09-29 2000-08-22 A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
AU66990/00A Abandoned AU6699000A (en) 1999-09-29 2000-08-02 Unit for the transfer and distribution of a liquid

Country Status (12)

Country Link
US (3) US6708897B1 (en)
EP (3) EP1088562A1 (en)
JP (2) JP2003510133A (en)
KR (1) KR100652972B1 (en)
AT (2) ATE326988T1 (en)
AU (2) AU6699000A (en)
BR (1) BR0004489A (en)
CA (1) CA2321352C (en)
DE (2) DE60028177T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2265964T3 (en)
SG (1) SG87165A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2001023008A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (65)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1146007A1 (en) * 2000-04-11 2001-10-17 Brian Slade Fluid dispenser with flow control
GB0025887D0 (en) * 2000-10-23 2000-12-06 Reckitt Benckiser Uk Ltd A device
WO2003092750A1 (en) * 2002-05-03 2003-11-13 Givaudan Sa Dispensing device
US20060163376A1 (en) * 2002-10-08 2006-07-27 Lakatos Kara L Breakable wick for use in a dispenser for a volatile liquid
US20040262419A1 (en) * 2003-06-27 2004-12-30 Kotary Kara L. Breakable wick for use in a dispenser for a volatile liquid
US6899280B2 (en) * 2002-10-08 2005-05-31 S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Wick-based delivery system with wick having sections of varying porosities
US7032831B2 (en) 2003-03-21 2006-04-25 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Container for a device for dispensing a volatile liquid
US20040076553A1 (en) * 2002-10-16 2004-04-22 Franco Zobele Refill for the diffusion of solutions and related diffusing device
US7469844B2 (en) * 2002-11-08 2008-12-30 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Diffusion device and method of diffusing
GB0306449D0 (en) * 2003-03-21 2003-04-23 Givaudan Sa Device
US20040195245A1 (en) * 2003-03-21 2004-10-07 Kishen Gohil Top mounting for a container for a volatile liquid dispenser
US6871794B2 (en) * 2003-05-01 2005-03-29 E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company Liquid dispersion device
US6938883B2 (en) 2003-06-27 2005-09-06 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Guide for selectively receiving a wick in a dispenser for a volatile liquid
US7744833B2 (en) 2003-06-27 2010-06-29 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Volatile liquids having predetermined evaporation profiles
US6966665B2 (en) 2003-06-27 2005-11-22 S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Flameless candle with air intake chamber and air outflow chamber
US7157057B2 (en) 2003-07-03 2007-01-02 Givaudan Sa Apparatus for positioning a wick in a dispenser for a volatile liquid
GB0320460D0 (en) * 2003-09-02 2003-10-01 Givaudan Sa Device
GB0320514D0 (en) * 2003-09-02 2003-10-01 Givaudan Sa Device
GB0320461D0 (en) * 2003-09-02 2003-10-01 Givaudan Sa Device
US20050178345A1 (en) * 2004-02-13 2005-08-18 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Wick-based delivery system incorporating a capillary member
US7681806B2 (en) * 2004-07-28 2010-03-23 The Dial Corporation Vapor dispersing device and method
WO2006032709A1 (en) * 2004-08-13 2006-03-30 Zobele España, S.A. Device for the diffusion of multiple volatile substances
EP1788588B1 (en) * 2004-09-01 2015-08-26 Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. Soft magnetic material, dust core and method for producing dust core
GB0420001D0 (en) * 2004-09-09 2004-10-13 Givaudan Sa Container
US7379662B2 (en) 2005-03-08 2008-05-27 Zobele España, S.A. Device for diffusing volatile substances
US20060233538A1 (en) * 2005-04-14 2006-10-19 Tollens Fernando R Energized systems and devices for delivering volatile materials
DE102005058278A1 (en) * 2005-12-06 2007-06-14 Kai Chih Industrial Co., Ltd., Hsin Tien Insect trap for use in plant cultivation area, has mist excitation device and backpressure device, where devices` working times are arranged to realize alternating actuating operation
US20070176015A1 (en) * 2006-01-30 2007-08-02 The Procter & Gamble Company System for delivering volatile materials
KR100776268B1 (en) 2006-05-17 2007-11-28 주식회사 코즈 Automatic Aroma Evaporating Unit
US7481571B2 (en) 2006-08-01 2009-01-27 B&F Product Development Flameless candle incorporating insect repellant diffuser and an ambient light sensor
GB0618856D0 (en) * 2006-09-26 2006-11-01 Givauden Sa Apparatus
JP4853917B2 (en) * 2006-12-28 2012-01-11 株式会社吉野工業所 Air freshener release container
US7798422B2 (en) * 2007-07-19 2010-09-21 Trevino Ruben E Cedar oil evaporators
US7997772B2 (en) 2007-08-09 2011-08-16 Fasst Products, Llc Flameless candle with multimedia capabilities
ITPI20070136A1 (en) * 2007-12-10 2009-06-11 Deo Promotion Srl SYSTEM FOR THE SEALING OF CONTAINERS OF PERFUME FOR ENVIRONMENT
WO2010014996A2 (en) * 2008-08-01 2010-02-04 Porex Corporation Wicks for dispensers of vaporizable materials
US7997508B2 (en) 2008-08-15 2011-08-16 Le Cherche Midi Spill-proof aerator for low volatile compound solutions
EP2183967A1 (en) 2008-11-07 2010-05-12 Givaudan SA Liquid transfer and evaporation device and wicks therefor
US20100176210A1 (en) * 2009-01-09 2010-07-15 Porex Corporation Hydrophilic Porous Wicks for Vaporizable Materials
WO2011088097A1 (en) * 2010-01-12 2011-07-21 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Spill/leak resistant seal for a wicking device
KR20100004422U (en) * 2010-03-18 2010-04-29 임두만 A body of sprayer
FR2958854B1 (en) * 2010-04-16 2012-04-06 Techniplast RETURN FRAGRANCE DIFFUSER
GB201008272D0 (en) * 2010-05-18 2010-06-30 Patel Abdul E Air treatment dispenser device
US8807538B2 (en) * 2011-04-28 2014-08-19 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Centrifugal fan device
TW201350760A (en) * 2012-06-12 2013-12-16 Pro Iroda Ind Inc Metal wick structure
ES2570956T3 (en) * 2012-11-06 2016-05-23 Zobele Espana Sa Release system of volatile substances
JP5992303B2 (en) * 2012-11-30 2016-09-14 株式会社吉野工業所 Volatilizer container
US20140183273A1 (en) * 2012-12-28 2014-07-03 The Dial Corporation Activating a volatile reservoir using a lateral force
US20150014432A1 (en) * 2013-07-09 2015-01-15 Audrey Kieschnick Fragrance Sticks
FR3009198B1 (en) * 2013-08-01 2015-07-17 Techniplast DEVICE FOR DIFFUSING A FRAGRANCE SUCH AS A FRAGRANCE
US20150136871A1 (en) * 2013-11-19 2015-05-21 Wildlife Research Center, Inc. Scent wick dispenser
FR3024714B1 (en) * 2014-08-06 2016-09-09 Vuitton Louis Sa SYSTEM FOR TESTING A FRAGRANCE
JP7059266B2 (en) 2016-10-12 2022-04-25 ハイヤ－セント・インコーポレイテッド Aroma glass
USD823685S1 (en) 2017-03-01 2018-07-24 Wildlife Research Center, Inc. Liquid scent dispenser
US11241007B2 (en) 2017-03-01 2022-02-08 Wildlife Research Center, Inc. Temperature-regulated scent dispenser and method of using thereof
US10285444B2 (en) * 2017-04-27 2019-05-14 Rai Strategic Holdings, Inc. Aerosol delivery device including a ceramic wicking element
USD980964S1 (en) 2017-10-12 2023-03-14 Hya-scent, Inc. Fragrance diffuser element
USD869630S1 (en) 2017-10-12 2019-12-10 Hya-scent, Inc. Fragrance diffuser element
USD894362S1 (en) 2017-10-12 2020-08-25 Hya-scent, Inc. Fragrance diffuser
WO2019104396A1 (en) * 2017-11-30 2019-06-06 Jim Hannon-Tan Design Pty Ltd Apparatus for decoration and use thereof
US20190240367A1 (en) * 2018-02-06 2019-08-08 New Market Concepts, LLC (a Nevada LLC) Spill-proof, passive air freshener refill cartridge
US11623016B2 (en) 2018-10-12 2023-04-11 Hya-scent, Inc. Scent diffuser
WO2020124998A1 (en) * 2018-12-17 2020-06-25 浙江茵菲环境科技有限公司 Aromatherapy container base, manufacturing method therefor and fragrance control method therefor
TWI697352B (en) * 2019-05-08 2020-07-01 翁子勝 Liquid evaporation device
FR3128378A1 (en) * 2021-10-27 2023-04-28 Caelimp Removable assembly for a diffuser device, and diffuser device

Family Cites Families (40)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1309619A (en) * 1919-07-15 Planoohapm co
US1135124A (en) * 1911-08-28 1915-04-13 George H Maas Moistener for cigars and the like.
US1071326A (en) * 1912-06-10 1913-08-26 George H Maas Cigar and tobacco moistener.
US1332659A (en) * 1919-06-03 1920-03-02 Carlos G Bates Evaporimeter or atmometer
US1377909A (en) * 1921-01-07 1921-05-10 Moulin Rene Portable diffusion apparatus
US1771315A (en) * 1927-05-18 1930-07-22 Charles N Remfry Liquid vaporizer
US1852004A (en) * 1928-11-16 1932-04-05 Clifford E Dunn Wick for humidifiers
US2943378A (en) * 1955-09-08 1960-07-05 Miller Gladys Davis High lift fabric for laminated lubricator wick
US3129268A (en) * 1961-12-12 1964-04-14 Standard Mfg Company Evaporator panels
US3613994A (en) * 1969-06-23 1971-10-19 Richard E Goodman Vapor-dispensing device
US3587968A (en) * 1969-07-07 1971-06-28 Ciba Geigy Corp Apparatus for the diffusion of volatile products
US4419326A (en) 1981-04-30 1983-12-06 De Laire, Inc. Vapor dispersing process
JPS5813249U (en) * 1981-07-17 1983-01-27 小林製薬株式会社 volatile liquid diffuser
US4739928A (en) * 1985-10-15 1988-04-26 The Drackett Company Air freshener dispenser
US4742960A (en) * 1986-05-01 1988-05-10 O'connor Products Company, Inc. Wick dispenser
US4732321A (en) * 1986-07-17 1988-03-22 Dolan John E Passive air freshener
US4913350A (en) * 1988-03-18 1990-04-03 Givaudan Corporation Air freshener device using external capillaries
US4889286A (en) * 1988-09-19 1989-12-26 Donald Spector Controllable air freshener unit
US4915301A (en) * 1988-11-15 1990-04-10 International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. Container with sorbent member and microporous membrane for dispensing vapor from volatile liquid
JPH02121118U (en) * 1989-03-20 1990-10-01
JP2604239B2 (en) * 1989-04-28 1997-04-30 大日本除蟲菊株式会社 Liquid absorption wick and chemical evaporation method
JPH084028Y2 (en) * 1989-09-13 1996-02-07 エステー化学株式会社 Air freshener container
US5000383A (en) * 1990-03-09 1991-03-19 S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Vapor releasing device
DE4109107A1 (en) * 1991-02-12 1991-08-22 Ahrens Hans Joachim Dipl Phys Roll on cosmetic applicator - consists of liquid-container, ball, ball-setting, and protective gap, with capillary tube
US5114625A (en) * 1991-02-20 1992-05-19 Gibson Clyde W Fragrance dispenser for evaporating aromatic liquid
DE4140127C1 (en) * 1991-12-05 1992-12-03 Dragoco Gerberding & Co Gmbh, 3450 Holzminden, De Volatile active material carrier
JP2583297Y2 (en) * 1993-12-27 1998-10-22 大日本除蟲菊株式会社 Heated evaporator
FR2717392B1 (en) * 1994-03-16 1996-06-07 Prodifa Sarl Dynamic diffuser of a substance such as a perfume.
US5747911A (en) * 1994-09-30 1998-05-05 Itt Automotive Electrical Systems, Inc. Brush holder
JP3088277B2 (en) 1995-10-25 2000-09-18 オカモト産業株式会社 Air freshener container
US5738247A (en) * 1996-09-25 1998-04-14 Kuan; Ching Fu Automatic liquid material metering system
WO1998016262A1 (en) * 1996-10-16 1998-04-23 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Air freshener device with dispensing actuator feature
JP2587252Y2 (en) * 1996-12-24 1998-12-16 エステー化学株式会社 Air freshener container
US5954268A (en) * 1997-03-03 1999-09-21 Joshi; Ashok V. Fluid delivery system
EP0864330A1 (en) * 1997-03-10 1998-09-16 Seiichi Yazaki Aroma emission device
GB9705486D0 (en) * 1997-03-17 1997-05-07 Globol Chem Uk Ltd Apparatus for dispensing air modifying agents
GB2325407B (en) * 1997-05-19 2001-05-23 United Chinese Plastics Prod Scent-dispensing artificial flower
ATE240125T1 (en) * 1997-07-11 2003-05-15 Hts Int Trading Ag EVAPORATION DISPENSER
FR2774597B1 (en) * 1998-02-10 2000-08-25 Conceptions Et D Innovations I NON-REMANENCE VOLATILE DIFFUSER
JP3056251U (en) * 1998-07-28 1999-02-12 山本香料株式会社 Diffusion pins such as fragrances and pesticides

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20040164181A1 (en) 2004-08-26
AU6699000A (en) 2001-04-30
DE60028177D1 (en) 2006-06-29
EP1088561A1 (en) 2001-04-04
DE60028177T2 (en) 2007-03-08
SG87165A1 (en) 2002-03-19
BR0004489A (en) 2001-06-19
WO2001023008A1 (en) 2001-04-05
KR100652972B1 (en) 2006-11-30
DE60003134D1 (en) 2003-07-10
ES2265964T3 (en) 2007-03-01
EP1133323A1 (en) 2001-09-19
CA2321352C (en) 2009-04-21
US6921025B2 (en) 2005-07-26
ATE242014T1 (en) 2003-06-15
KR20010050640A (en) 2001-06-15
CA2321352A1 (en) 2001-03-29
ATE326988T1 (en) 2006-06-15
AU748785B2 (en) 2002-06-13
EP1088561B1 (en) 2003-06-04
US6708897B1 (en) 2004-03-23
JP2001162156A (en) 2001-06-19
JP2003510133A (en) 2003-03-18
EP1133323B1 (en) 2006-05-24
DE60003134T2 (en) 2004-04-08
EP1088562A1 (en) 2001-04-04
US20050001052A1 (en) 2005-01-06

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
AU748785B2 (en) A device for the controllable transfer of a liquid and an apparatus for dispensing transferred liquids
JP4633797B2 (en) Volatile substance diffuser
CA2314210C (en) Dual function dispenser
US7379662B2 (en) Device for diffusing volatile substances
US9457117B2 (en) Emanator element for volatile liquids and devices incorporating same
CA2548907C (en) Method and device for the evaporation of volatile substances through a membrane
FR2717392A1 (en) Dynamic diffuser of a substance such as a perfume.
CA2540924C (en) Methods for delivering volatile materials
US20060233538A1 (en) Energized systems and devices for delivering volatile materials
US7597308B1 (en) Constant-rate volatile material dispensing device
AU4882500A (en) Dual function dispenser
US20070158456A1 (en) Long Term Active Fragrancer
JP2002510228A (en) Controlled release of substances
WO2005032607A2 (en) Systems and devices for delivering volatile materials
JP2015528710A (en) Fan-based volatile substance distribution system
CA2594481A1 (en) Long service life scent dispersing mat apparatus
EP1270021A1 (en) Refill for the diffusion of solutions and related diffusing device
US20040076553A1 (en) Refill for the diffusion of solutions and related diffusing device
JP2003193533A (en) Liquid supply device
JPH10248913A (en) Diffuser
JP2602917Y2 (en) Air freshener container
JP4085927B2 (en) Drug diffusion system, drug diffusion device and drug cartridge

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
FGA Letters patent sealed or granted (standard patent)